Lenalidomide 5mg

Lenalidomide 5mg — Uses and Benefits

Lenalidomide 5mg is prescribed for certain blood cancers, most commonly multiple myeloma, and some cases of myelodysplastic syndromes and mantle cell lymphoma, usually as part of a combination treatment plan.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Multiple myeloma, often combined with other anti-cancer medicines
• Certain myelodysplastic syndromes with specific chromosomal changes
• Some cases of mantle cell lymphoma that have relapsed or not responded to earlier treatment

HOW IT WORKS

• Alters immune system activity to help the body attack abnormal cancer cells
• Reduces formation of new blood vessels that feed tumours
• Has direct effects that slow growth of certain cancer cells

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Not used for common infections or general blood disorders
• Not a treatment for solid tumours like lung, breast, or colon cancer
• Not meant for self-use without a cancer specialist's supervision
• Not a painkiller or general immune booster

How to Use Lenalidomide 5mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once daily at the same time each day
• Swallow the capsule whole with water; do not open, crush, or chew it
• Can be taken with or without food, unless your doctor advises otherwise
• Do not touch a broken or leaking capsule with bare hands; wash hands if contact occurs
• Continue for the full duration and cycle pattern advised by your doctor, even if you feel well

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember on the same day
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule
• Do not take two doses together to make up for a missed one
• Contact your doctor if you are unsure what to do

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct heat, sunlight, and moisture
• Keep in the original blister pack until ready to use
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
• Dispose of unused or expired capsules safely as advised by your pharmacist, not in household trash

Lenalidomide 5mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Tiredness or weakness
• Diarrhoea or constipation
• Nausea
• Muscle cramps
• Skin rash or itching
• Low blood counts (anaemia, low platelets)

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Fever or chills
• Swelling of hands, feet, or ankles
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Loss of appetite

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Signs of severe infection such as high fever, chills, or persistent sore throat
• Unusual bleeding, bruising, or blood in urine/stool
• Sudden leg pain, swelling, chest pain, or breathlessness (possible blood clot)
• Severe skin reactions like blistering, peeling skin, or widespread rash
• Signs of liver problems such as yellowing of skin/eyes, dark urine
• Severe allergic reaction with swelling of face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Lenalidomide 5mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and must be used only under the supervision of a cancer specialist (oncologist/haematologist).

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Are allergic to lenalidomide or similar medicines like thalidomide
• Have not been registered or counselled under a pregnancy prevention programme, if applicable

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have kidney or liver disease
• Have a history of blood clots, heart disease, or stroke
• Have low blood cell counts or a bleeding disorder
• Are taking any other medicines, supplements, or herbal products
• Are of childbearing potential; strict contraception is required during and after treatment

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other medicines that affect blood clotting or increase bleeding risk
• Certain hormonal contraceptives, discuss appropriate birth control with your doctor
• Other medicines that suppress bone marrow or immune function
• Always share your complete medicine list with your doctor before starting

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

It is best to avoid or limit alcohol as it may worsen side effects; check with your doctor.

Can women of childbearing age take this medicine?

Only under strict medical supervision with effective contraception, as this medicine can cause serious birth defects.

How long will I need to take this medicine?

• Duration depends on your condition and response; your doctor will decide the number of treatment cycles.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.